(The Center Square) – Residents of the Empire State pay more for electricity than 42 other states, according to the Energy Affordability 2026 report from the American Legislative Exchange Council.
ALEC released its analysis on Wednesday. North Dakota and Louisiana were the leaders in the review of electricity prices and energy affordability indicators as measured for each of the 50 states. The higher the ranking, the cheaper the costs for consumers.
The report uses the most recent information available for consistency; this means electricity price data is from 2024, and gasoline and diesel fuel prices are from 2025.
Additionally for context, the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, and the prices of fuel have climbed since. Global energy infrastructure has been impacted by the action and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
ALEC says, “New York maintains some of the highest electricity costs in the nation. The state generates electricity primarily through natural gas, hydroelectric, and nuclear power, with smaller contributions from wind and solar. As a net importer of electricity, it relies on regional markets to supplement internal production, contributing to high costs.”
ALEC suggests the state create “clear statutory priorities focused on affordability, reliability, and domestic production could further enhance long-term energy stability and economic competitiveness.”
The report says the average retail price in cents per kilowatt-hour is 19.66. Total retail sales in megawatt-hours are 140.5 million.
Natural gas (48%), nuclear (21%), wind (5%), solar (2%) and hydroelectric (22%) represent the top generation sources. The state has adopted a 100% renewable portfolio standard by 2040.
